Date of Award

January 2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Aviation

First Advisor

James Higgins

Abstract

This study investigated to what extent over-reliance on automation, particularly autopilot systems, contributed to incidents and accidents in commercial aviation. Despite advancements in automated technologies, there is a growing concern regarding the potential consequences of pilots’ dependency on these systems. This research analyzed past key incidents to identify patterns indicating that pilots may have been inadequately prepared to assume manual control during automation failures. This study employed a qualitative approach, including semi-structured interviews with aviation professionals such as airline flight instructors, line check pilots, flight standards evaluators, and an FAA aviation safety inspector, along with qualitative surveys with professional pilots. The interviews provided expert insights into automation dependency and its impact on training and performance. The surveys also explored pilots’ experiences with automation failures and challenges in transitioning to manual control. A key focus of this study was understanding how reliance on automation affected pilots’ situational awareness and decision-making, particularly during critical moments that require manual intervention. By analyzing this data, the study identified key factors contributing to safety risks and offered recommendations to improve training and strengthen manual flying skills. These insights sought to connect the advantages of automation with the risks of reduced manual flying skills, providing practical strategies to address vulnerabilities linked to automation in 21st-century aviation.

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